Scotland remain in contention for automatic World Cup qualification despite a 3-2 defeat in Greece, thanks to Belarus’s surprise draw in Denmark. Steve Clarke’s side must now beat Denmark at Hampden Park on Tuesday to top the group.
The match in Athens was a chaotic affair. Greece took an early lead through Tasos Bakasetas, doubled their advantage via Konstantinos Karetsas, and appeared to seal victory when Christos Tzolis made it 3-0. Scotland, however, rallied spectacularly, with Ben Gannon-Doak and Ryan Christie scoring within minutes to set up a frantic finale.
Greece were reduced to ten men after Bakasetas received a second yellow card, but Scotland could not find an equaliser. Scott McTominay hit the crossbar in the first half and missed a golden chance late on, while Ché Adams also wasted opportunities.
“A crazy game, crazy night,” said Clarke. “We conceded bad goals and scored good goals. I am pleased that the players still have the opportunity to go directly to the World Cup but disappointed we lost the game. It is not a game we should have lost.”
Scotland’s hopes were kept alive when Belarus fought back to draw 2-2 in Copenhagen. Clarke’s men now face a winner-takes-all encounter against Denmark, where victory would secure their place at the finals.
